And, as part of Operation Stop It, a multi-agency crackdown on flytipping, the following statistics were also recorded for May:

• 451 flytipping incidents were reported and investigated – 22 are still ongoing and 10 were progressed for prosecution. • 26 CCTV cameras were deployed in known flytipping areas. • 14 Police and Criminal Evidence interviews were carried out. • Seven duty of care letters were issued warning people of their responsibility to dispose of waste legally. • There were 30 stop and check operations to find out whether waste carriers were licensed – two fixed penalty notices were handed to carriers who did not have the proper papers.

Ian Hoult, Durham County Council’s neighbourhood protection manager, said: “Our campaign to stop flytipping is proving effective so far with a 29 per cent reduction since November 2014.

“However, we will not be complacent and are continuing to work with Durham Constabulary, the Environment Agency and Crimestoppers to deter and catch those who dump rubbish illegally.

“By carrying out regular stop and check operations throughout the county we are making sure that anyone carrying waste is registered and has the correct documents in their possession.

“And the use of extra CCTV cameras is helping us to prosecute even more people who have been caught in the act flytipping.”

Cllr Brian Stephens, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, added: “Thanks to help from the public we are managing to reduce flytipping in our beautiful county.

“We would like to remind people that they can get rid of unwanted items at their local tip for free or you can arrange a bulky waste collection. If someone is taking your waste away it is vital to make sure you know it is going to the right place.”